Carlos Delfino completed his first practice with the Rockets and went into his usual post-practice stretching routine, which made him different from most of his new teammates. He has been around long enough to have a routine.

The Rockets did not sign Delfino because he stretches well after workouts, but in many ways, it is typical of what they sought. On a team of prospects, they needed a pro.

The free agent signing of a player with a career triple-single was far from exciting. “Solid” is not sensational, though the Rockets could certainly use some of that, too. Yet, as Delfino joined the team on Thursday after visa difficulties delayed his arrival for about 10 days, they believe he will bring something less obvious that is still very much needed.